Romeo and Juliet, Act I, Scene 5

Although principally known today for his seascapes and landscapes, James Clarke Hook began his artistic career as a history painter and his early exhibited works included titles from Spenser and Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice and Twelfth Night. In 1846 Hook travelled to Italy on a scholarship from the Royal Academy schools, spending two years living in Florence, Rome, Parma and Venice. He drew on the art and architecture he was exposed to during those years when he returned to England setting his subjects in Italianate cities and landscapes. Literary and historical themes dominated his painting until 1855 when he turned his focus to contemporary subjects.

Shakespeare provided a wealth source of inspiration for Victorian artists and plays such as Romeo and Juliet and Twelfth Night were regularly drawn on for subject matter. The moment where Juliet and her nurse look to discover the identity of her mysterious dance partner allowed artists to create a sense of drama and demonstrate their skills at rendering fabric and architectural detail.

Given Albert Zuckerman’s background in the dramatic arts it is perhaps not surprising that Romeo and Juliet was the first painting he purchased. This charming rendition of one of Shakespeare’s greatest works sparked an interest in art that inspired a collection with a strong literary theme.

We are grateful to Juliet McMaster for her assistance in preparing this catalogue entry.